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SPIKES Protocol (Standard)

Practice the foundational steps of delivering bad news to a patient's spouse in a controlled setting.

Time Limit

10 minutes

Patient

Susan

Type

Phone Call

How This Works

This is an interactive phone call simulation. You'll speak with Susan in a realistic clinical communication scenario.

1. Begin Call

Click "Begin Call" when you're ready. Speak naturally as you would on a real call.

2. Have the Conversation

10 minutes to complete the call. The AI responds in real-time to what you say.

3. Get Feedback

End the call when finished. You'll receive AI-powered feedback on your communication.

💡 Tip: Speak clearly and at a natural pace. If you need a moment to think, it's okay to pause briefly - just as you would in a real conversation.

Pre-Call Knowledge Check

Pre-Call Knowledge Check loading

Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives loading

Briefing Details

1. Learning: What is SPIKES?

Purpose of this Scenario

This simulation is designed to help you practice the SPIKES protocol, a structured framework for delivering difficult news. Before reviewing your specific scenario, take a moment to refresh your knowledge with this short video.

2. Scenario Briefing

Your Objective

Your goal is to deliver difficult news to Susan by following the 6-step SPIKES protocol. This scenario is designed to help you master the sequence and phrasing of the protocol with a receptive, though worried, family member.

Patient Background

You are about to call Susan, a 52-year-old woman, to provide a critical update on her husband, John. She is at home, anxious and awaiting your call.

Crucial Information: Earlier, other medical staff told Susan that John was "responsive" after he was brought in. She is clinging to this as a source of hope.

Key Medical Facts

  • Event: John, 55, collapsed suddenly at home.
  • Initial Findings: Large ischemic stroke, but was responsive to voice/touch on arrival.
  • Deterioration: Stroke has expanded with significant brain swelling.
  • Current Status: Unresponsive in the ICU, extremely poor prognosis.

3. How to Interact

Starting the Simulation

Follow these steps to begin the role-playing exercise:

  1. When you have reviewed the learning material and briefing, press the Start Call button below.
  2. You will hear the phone ringing for a few seconds.
  3. When the ringing stops, the AI patient will answer, but will wait for you to speak. You must initiate the conversation by saying "Hello?" or a similar greeting.
  4. Once the call begins, this orientation panel will be replaced by a live transcript of your conversation.

Make sure you are in a quiet environment with a good internet connection

According to the SPIKES protocol, what is the primary purpose of the 'S' (Setting up the interview) step?

What is the main goal of the 'P' (Perception) step in the SPIKES protocol?

In the 'I' (Invitation) step, why is it important to ask for permission before sharing detailed information?

After completing this scenario, you will be able to:

  • Recall the six steps of the SPIKES protocol (Setting, Perception, Invitation, Knowledge, Emotions, Strategy/Summary).
  • Apply the SPIKES framework to structure a conversation about delivering bad news.
  • Identify the purpose of each step within the SPIKES protocol during a patient interaction.